The expansion of Heathrow Airport will create a “huge opportunity” for Scotland, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce has said, with billions in investment and thousands of jobs. Rachel Reeves has announced the UK Government’s support for a third runway at the London hub and put it at the heart of her plans to kickstart the UK economy.
In a speech, the Chancellor said the move would increase opportunities for Scottish whisky and salmon, “already two of the biggest British exports out of Heathrow”. Scottish salmon is Heathrow’s biggest export by weight. The Chancellor said the major infrastructure project would spur growth in the UK’s ailing economy and support 100,000 jobs.
Liz Cameron, chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, welcomed the move but said the Chancellor must ensure Scotland plays a role in the runway’s creation. The Scottish Government said expansion must not come at the expense of long-haul flights to Scotland or result in more centralisation of the economy to London and the South East of England.
Ministers have previously backed the plans, with Heathrow saying it would result in 16,000 Scottish jobs and £14 billion in growth. Dr Cameron urged Labour to make good on previous commitments for the construction of a new supply chain hub in Scotland where materials would be pre-assembled before being sent to London.
